Applying the environmental identity development model in place-based education: an online resource guide

Abstract

I created an online resource guide for place-based education (PBE) informed by the Environmental Identity Development (EID) Model and research (Green et al., 2016). The EID Model provides a flexible framework for understanding how individuals develop their sense of self within and in relation to the natural world. The model is valuable as a diagnostic tool and a guide in the creation of place-based activities that support children’s play, learning, and growth in nature. The goals of this project were to create an accessible guide to understanding the EID Model and theory; to demonstrate how the EID Model and research may be used in the development of culturally relevant educational strategies; to utilize the EID Model in the creation and curation of effective and flexible PBE activities. Qualitative data from the EID research project were used to explain and contextualize the EID Model. Place-based pedagogies and land education pedagogies were utilized in the development of educational resources. The educational resources created for the website are accessible and flexible, adaptable for diverse ages and environments. The website encourages adults to support “spontaneous” child-initiated activities and explorations in the natural world. Ultimately, this guide is an accessible resource that encourages educators to utilize the EID Model in the pursuit of culturally responsive and child-centered PBE in their own context.